Garrett-Evangelical News

EVANSTON, Illinois, August 2011 – Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary celebrated yet again as students of the Course of Study School graduated at the end of July. The graduation was a bilingual service, reflecting the diverse make-up of the graduating class. Rev. Mary Ann Moman, director of the Course of Study School, and Rev. Marigene Chamberlain, academic director of Escuela del Curso de Estudio, led the bilingual service with the assistance of Dr. Lallene Rector, academic dean of Garrett-Evangelical.

Rev. Mary Ann Moman, COS Director

As the Call to Worship was given in both English and Spanish, the tone of the service was set: reflective, contemplative, diverse, and purposeful. Program director Rev. Mary Ann Moman provided an inspiring message in which she urged the graduates and current students to, “Become lifelong learners. Although one part of [the] journey has ended, another leg has just begun.”

In her first year as director, Rev. Moman was encouraged by Garrett-Evangelical’s commitment to Course of Study. She said, “The Course of Study program is an essential part of the educational system for clergy in The United Methodist Church. In this program we strive to provide excellence in academics and formation for ministry. I am grateful for the Spanish language and English language programs. Their dedication to academic and practical formation is the key to the program.”

In two emotionally charged speeches, the presidents of the Course of Study Schools at Garrett-Evangelical encouraged their fellow graduates and classmates with words of wisdom. Gene Turner, president of the student body of the Course of Study School, urged them to “take a moment to stop and smell the roses, for it is in these moments that God breaks into our lives in a powerful way.” Jorge Henao Ospina, president of the student body of Escuela del Curso de Estudio, reminded them to, “Not be afraid because God is with you…God helped you, God helps you and God will help you.”

Arlene Hernández

Special honors were given to graduate Arlene Hernández, as she received the Jorge González Award. Named after former Course of Study faculty member Jorge Gonzalez, who has been an influential leader in the Hispanic church, this award recognizes outstanding students and celebrates their achievements in their ministry and congregations. Arlene, born in New York and raised in Puerto Rico, now serves as the associate pastor at Wesley Hispanic UMC in Coral Gables, FL.

Garrett-Evangelical, founded in 1853, is a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 400 students from many denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.